I would like information on finding early 19th Century Photographers

Does anyone know of any resources, preferable books (internet O.K.), for finding information on early 19th Century landscape photographers in the state of Arizo na? thanks for your time Steve Gilb

steve - often the best resource for locale-specific photogrpahers is your state historical society/museum, and even some of thelarger county historical societies. there are many very fine books that deal with 19th century photography and practitioners, but they generally focus on a few principal and more well-known photogrphers. there are also some large-scale collectors out there that have quite a bit on knowledge about this subject. if there are a few specific folks you have in mind, give us the names, and we can check the references we have - i maintain a large library of materials on early photographers, and may be able to help you somewhat.

"These canyons are magnificant, Louie." "Oui, Fox. Don't knock over the Pickric Acid keg."

If you get to L.A. at all, check out the current exhibit of the Wilson Collection of Early Photographs (or look at the catalogue) at the Getty Museum. You might find some leads. Photography was invented in 1839, but spreads fairly quickly by the mid-1840s.

Sorry people, it was early when I wrote the above question. I ment does anyone have info on 19th Century photographers in the mid 1800's dealing with the state of Arizona. Sorry for the confusion and thanks for the info so far.

Regards, Steve Gilb

The George Eastman House International Museum of Photography and Film site has a huge amount of information about 19th century photographers. On the main page go to education and research and then go to the telnet database site. This site lists names and all available information about hundreds of early photographers. It may be searchable by state. Also check the American 19th Century holdings collections for thumbnails of a few of their images from early American photographers. A large number are from the West and may include something you are interested in. This is a great site.

There are quite a few museums in Arizona that have extensive archives of early photographic work. The Heard in Phx comes to mind as well as Sharlot Hall in Prescott. Northern Arizona University, Arizona State and University of Arizona libraries all have wonderful archives for research. If I knew which area of Arizona you are researching I might be able to offer more complete advice.